Basic Greek--a good introduction for anyone

I've had stacks of books spread around me for weeks; prepare yourself for a string of book reviews in the next few weeks. Here's the start...

Eating dinner elbow-to-elbow around a college cafeteria table may not be the most efficient way to learn the Greek alphabet, but it worked for me. My friend used mealtime to study for his Greek Exegesis class. Somehow--I can't quite remember how--I found myself learning the alphabet and reading whole words off his ring of flashcards. It was not nearly as complex as it looked on first glance; it was fun!

The best book for interested readers who are unable to attend a college class is the classic Basic Greek in 30 Minutes a Day: New Testament Greek Workbook for the Laymen. Just re-released by Bethany House, Basic Greek provides a comprehensive overview of the basics of NT Greek understandable for anyone. First published over twenty years ago, this workbook is simply organized, straightforward in approach, and rather addicting. It took self-control for me to keep my hands off of it when I had other tasks to complete.

This is definitely a unique title--and a true introduction to the study of Greek which will not overwhelm an interested middle-schooler, college student, or working adult. Anyone who masters this book could confidently enter a Greek class and dive into more serious work. In Basic Greek you will learn the alphabet, basic pronunciation, a general outline of basic grammar, plus how to use lexicons and pursue further learning. There are hundreds of common New Testament words to be learned; the approach is intuitive and you begin reading comfortable almost before you realize it.

All in all, it works. I am keeping it on my shelf for my children someday.